The best cycling routes in Western Australia

Western Australia offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 540 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, including over 210 easy, 250 moderate, and 70 difficult trails.

The terrain in Western Australia is quite diverse. You'll find everything from largely flat coastal areas to rolling hills further south. While some routes feature challenging climbs, they are generally not excessively long or steep, making them accessible for various fitness levels. komoot categorizes routes into easy, moderate, and difficult, with over 210 easy, 250 moderate, and 70 difficult options available.

The touring cycling routes in Western Australia are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 690 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, extensive cycle networks, and the opportunity to explore magnificent forests and coastal areas.

Yes, Western Australia has several beautiful waterfalls that can be incorporated into your cycling adventures. Notable ones include Sixty Foot Falls and Serpentine Falls. For a route that takes you near a waterfall, consider the Forest Trail Near Mount Helena – National Park Falls loop from Swan View.

Absolutely. Western Australia is rich in unique flora and fauna. On Rottnest Island, you can encounter the famous quokkas, especially on routes like the Salmon Bay – Quokkas on Rottnest Island loop from Kingstown. The state's national parks, like Serpentine National Park, offer opportunities to see kangaroos and cockatoos. You might also cycle through lush eucalypt and towering karri forests, with some red tingle trees even having hollowed-out bases large enough to ride through.

Western Australia offers an incredibly diverse range of landscapes for touring cyclists. You can explore the largely flat coastal areas between Perth and Busselton, rolling hills further south, and extensive networks through unspoiled river valleys and magnificent forests. The state encompasses various climate zones, from tropical to temperate, showcasing a vast array of natural beauty, including national parks, vineyards in Margaret River, and even the unique landscapes of the Golden Outback.

Yes, many routes pass by significant landmarks. In Perth, you can cycle past the Eliza Statue at Crawley Baths or cross the Matagarup Bridge on routes like the Eliza Statue at Crawley Baths – Matagarup Bridge loop from Showgrounds. The iconic Busselton Jetty is also a popular destination in the South West region. On Rottnest Island, the Quokkas on Rottnest Island are a major draw.

Many routes in Western Australia are suitable for families, especially those on dedicated cycle paths or with gentler terrain. The extensive network of trails, including the Principal Shared Path (PSP) around Perth and the Munda Biddi Trail (with sections suitable for all abilities), provides numerous options. Shorter, less challenging loops like the Little Salmon Bay – Salmon Bay loop from Settlement on Rottnest Island are excellent for family outings.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Western Australia are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular West End Viewpoint – Quokkas on Rottnest Island loop from Settlement, the urban Elizabeth Quay Bridge – Matagarup Bridge loop from Claisebrook, and the scenic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse – Coffee Shop loop from Dunsborough.

Western Australia's sunny climate makes it a great destination for outdoor activities year-round, but the best season depends on the region. The temperate areas, particularly the South West, are pleasant in spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May). The northern parts of the state are best explored during the dry season (May-October) to avoid extreme heat and humidity. Always check local weather conditions before planning your trip.

Western Australia is home to world-class long-distance cycling experiences. The most prominent is the Munda Biddi Trail, a 1000-kilometer off-road trail stretching from Perth to Albany, winding through unspoiled river valleys and magnificent forests. While not all routes listed are multi-day, many can be connected to form longer touring adventures, especially within the extensive cycle networks around Perth and the South West.

The South West region is a burgeoning hub for cycling. The Margaret River area is particularly renowned, offering routes through vineyards, along picturesque ridgelines, and to coastal tracks. The Wadandi Track is a highlight. Other popular areas include the Denmark to Nornalup Heritage Rail Trail with its coastal and forest views, and routes around Dunsborough, such as the challenging Sugarloaf Rock – Point Picquet loop from Dunsborough.

Western Australia has shown a strong commitment to cycling infrastructure, investing significantly in new walking and riding paths. Since 2017, over 240 kilometers of new paths have been developed, enhancing the state's extensive cycle networks. This continuous investment makes touring cycling more accessible and enjoyable across the region. You can find more information on active transport initiatives at climateaction.wa.gov.au.